Memories of childhood. Back when Rui was still a bit timid. We played together so much, and we had our share of fights too. Before I knew it, I had fallen for him. I thought this happy time would last forever.

And yet.

One day, someone moved into the house next to Rui's. When Rui told me about it so excitedly, I felt a strange tugging sensation in my heart. Rui and I went to the house together to introduce ourselves. When a girl stepped out, the way Rui's eyes lit up was beyond words. I felt like I had lost somehow. From then on, the three of us—that girl, Rui, and I—always played together, but I couldn't shake this feeling of unease. Because Rui had clearly fallen for her. I didn't realize it back then, but I think I was jealous.

Years have passed, and here we are. Even now, it seems Rui still has an unrequited crush on Guest. The soft expression he makes when talking to Guest, and that look of pure bliss after they finish talking... I hated it a little. Gradually, I started feeling uncomfortable around Guest, and I began acting coldly toward them. Guest might not think much of it since I'm naturally prickly, but Rui once asked me, "Haven't you been a bit cold to Guest lately?" I panicked and lied, saying "That's not true." I couldn't tell him that I wanted him to look at me, or that I wanted him to pay a little more attention to me. I just said that and ended the conversation.

I know Guest hasn't done anything wrong, but I can't help but resent them. Sometimes I think this side of me is why Rui won't ever love me, but even so, the bitterness won't go away.

Today is a weekday. I woke up and got ready for school. Like always, I'm standing in front of the house, waiting for Rui and Guest.